UPDATED: ARCHOS 3 Vision: iPod Touch Rival (Where Is Android?)

UPDATE: Realized after posting this it actually DOESN’T have Android. I jumped the gun. I guess my thought is that it – and everything else – SHOULD have Android and I just assumed. Tisk tisk. So instead how about we discuss the lack of Android Media Players – maybe someone will contribute some awesome media player software that, through the glory of MODDING,  rooted users can eventually hack onto our Android Phones.

ARCHOS keeps churning out more goodies: after announcing the ARCHOS 7 & 8 Home Tablets the company has also made official the ARCHOS 3 Vision, a small non-phone touch device that should directly compete with the iPod Touch.

The ARCHOS 3 Touch has a 3-inch screen, 8GB flash memory, ability to play a wide variety of video/audio formats, 14 hours of audio playback in one charge, FM Radio, FM transmitter and a bunch more. It sounds like it could really be a winner, of course depending on price, but check out the details from the ARCHOS Site:

Stand out from the crowd with the ARCHOS 3 Vision, with its sophisticated and minimalist design. The choice of red or chocolate casing further enhances the clean and modern look of the player, bought to life by the projection of the vibrant 3” colour display. With looks to match its performance, the ARCHOS 3 comes fully loaded with the latest multimedia functions. Experience your movies and pictures in finer detail with richer colours on the bright and sharp 3” touch screen and tune into your favourite FM radio stations.

With the voice and FM radio recording function you can seize those important moments and relive them anytime you want without limitations.

With room to store up to 4000 songs and dozens of your favourite movies, the ARCHOS 3 Vision is a product you’ll want to keep with you for your everyday digital lifestyle.

Raise your viewing standards
The ARCHOS 3 Vision’s vibrant 3” screen delivers the clearest possible colours for your visual enjoyment, allowing you to view your photos and videos in amazing quality.

The simple and easy to use interface has been designed with the consideration of the movement of your finger, with a virtual scroll dial that allows you to effortlessly navigate through your files.

The power of video in your pocket
Play almost any type of video thanks to the ARCHOS 3 Visions’ vast format compatibility, removing the hassle of having to convert your video files. The 8GB* flash drive provides outstanding mobility and stability with space to store dozens of films and videos, so your favourite movies are never more than a touch away. If you’re travelling or want to enjoy a film in your downtime the ARCHOS 3 Vision will be your perfect companion. Simply drop and drag the video file you want onto your ARCHOS and enjoy it back in stunning quality on the brilliant 3” touch screen.

Your audio enjoyment
The ARCHOS 3 Vision boasts crisp sound so you can enjoy your favourite songs and podcasts in great quality. With space for over 4000 songs1 and boasting 14 hours of playback2 on a single charge, the ARCHOS 3 Vision brings sound to your ears all day long.
With the text lyrics function you can interact with your music, and for budding pop stars why not sing along as lyrics are displayed across the screen!

Re-live those special occasions
Re-live those special occasions and share memories with family and friends with photos displayed on the ARCHOS 3 Vision. Photos look crisp and vivid, on the vibrant 3” screen. Why not add a touch of atmosphere with the ability to play music while viewing slideshows.

Jam to FM radio
The ARCHOS 3 Vision FM radio brings together the fun of analogue with the accuracy and convenience of digital, with 30 preset FM radio stations. Easy to set up, the FM radio offers plenty of worthwhile content for your listening pleasure.

Tune in and listen to live stories; you can never get from music files and enjoy your favourite radio programs anytime and anywhere without restriction. Plus, it’s a great extra to have when you’re on the go and want to catch up on the local news or catch the sports results.
The FM radio guarantees high quality sound and reception to keep you entertained without limitations.

Broadcast your favourite tunes
Want to share the latest tune with friends and family? The FM transmitter allows you to wirelessly stream music from your ARCHOS 3 Vision to an FM radio sources, such as your car radio or home HiFi. A great way to share your music collection during car journeys, rather than having to bring lots of CD’s with you.

For a true cinematic experience why not transmit audio from a movie to your car radio or home HiFi, so you can enjoy your videos with family and friends.

Seize those important moments
Need to record an important lecture? A meeting? Or remember that special occasion? With the ARCHOS 3 Vision you can record it all. You can also record direct from the FM radio, and enjoy that live DJ set or great mix time and time again.

Record any moment and store it on your ARCHOS 3 Vision, so you can relive it anytime you want.

I’m guessing we’ll see a bunch more of these Android MP3/Media players over the next 10 months.